I am someone who is always on the hunt for a new controller. The GameSir Cyclone 2 Multiplatform controller looked like some sort of alien contraption, and I just had to test it out to see if it was all flash or full of substance. For only $49.99 USD, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about it, but after spending a few weeks with the GameSir Cyclone 2, I am pretty happy that I made the switch.
Coming in Black and White, the GameSir Cyclone 2 is pretty futuristic-looking. The black version is detailed with grey and transparent portions, whereas the white version features gold and red touches. There is RGB lighting in each grip and around the center button, adding a touch of flair. You will also find two programmable back buttons to bring on the “pro” controller status and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. In the middle, there are four sections that light up to indicate which profile you are using.
The GameSir Cyclone 2 has a little bit of weight to it, which helps with its premium feel. The buttons have a perfect clickiness that can rival that of the Razer Wolverine line of controllers. It can be purchased with or without the charging stand, and as cool as I think it looks, it definitely takes up space.
“For only $49.99 USD, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about it, but after spending a few weeks with the GameSir Cyclone 2, I am pretty happy that I made the switch.”
Using the GameSir Connect software, you can customize your buttons, sticks, and triggers, including the RGBs. Here you will find things like deadzone, colour presets, hair trigger modes, polling rate (up to 1000 Hz), and more. There are also onboard programming controls, but personally, I find them very obtuse—on all controllers, not just this one.
I will note that even though I programmed the RGBs multiple times, during my gameplay sessions, the controller would start out fine, and then begin to cycle through light settings, instead of my static teal and pink. I did not have the music settings on, and even the RGBs I chose were static, so there should have been no flashing or changes, but it happened almost every time, and is apparently a known issue.
My biggest issue with controllers is that they are usually platform-specific. I play a variety of games on all platforms, but mainly Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC. I also often use the MSI Claw 8 or ROG Ally X, where I prefer to use a controller either on a long flight or when connected to my TV. We also have a PlayStation at home, so really, it means we have a ridiculous number of controllers, charging stands, and cords lying around our entertainment area.
The GameSir Cyclone 2 Multiplatform Controller may not cover every platform, but it does take over for Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, and PC (including the Ally and the Claw), meaning it is the perfect device to take with me when I travel, without the stand, of course. One controller across all my mobile platforms has been a game changer, and although it would be a miracle to have Xbox thrown in there, or even a device a bit smaller to throw in my bag, I’ve been pretty happy. Twice, I have packed my Power A Enhanced Wireless Controller and forgotten that I can’t use it on PC or my handhelds, only to have to slum it with a mouse and keyboard.
GameSir has also beaten out several other controllers in weight, coming in at only 227g. For comparison, the Razer Wolverine V2 Pro is 300g, and the Xbox Elite Series 2 is 345g. It sits in line with the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch, and though I would love an itty-bitty controller for travel like the PB Tails CHOC 2.0, it was still pretty light to carry in my backpack.
“Even during all-day sessions, I have never had it die on me.”
The charging stand comes included when you purchase the $55.99 bundle, but you can opt out and get just the controller if you’d prefer for $44.99. For that price, I don’t see why not, but the stand does take up a bit of space, so if you don’t have the room, don’t bother. The 860mAh battery charges via USB-C whether it is in use or not, and the stand charges it via connections at the back. I charge my devices regularly, and even during all-day sessions, I have never had it die on me. Plus, if you have the stand, it charges every time you put it away.
During use, the GameSir Cyclone 2 was always quick and accurate. The Mag-Res TMR sticks with anti-drift never showed any signs of lag or walking, and the 1000Hz polling rate lived up to its name. I’ll be honest, I’m not exactly a competitive gamer, but the Cyclone 2 more than met my needs, and I never had any input complaints. For Nintendo Switch players, the Cyclone 2 also offers a built-in 6-axis gyro, another feature that makes it great for users who play across multiple platforms. You won’t need to swap it out or miss out on important features.
As someone who doesn’t necessarily need all the customization and high-end features, normally I wouldn’t search out something like the Cyclone 2. That being said, for around $50, it costs a fraction of what other major brands charge and at least matches what they offer. Even if you might not use the features now, you may as well throw them in for later.
All around, the GameSir Cyclone 2 Multiplatform controller brings all the features you could want from a pro-level controller at a price lower than what a console standard controller would cost. With gyro support, a 1000Hz polling rate, full customization, and a badass-looking charging stand, the GameSir Cyclone 2 goes above and beyond. If only it didn’t have a mind of its own when it comes to RGBs!
- Multi-platform Compatibility: Works with Switch, PC, iOS, and Android devices.Tri-mode connectivity: 2.4G Wireless Dongle/Wired/Bluetooth. NOT compatible with XBOX
- GameSir Mag-Res TMR Joysticks: GameSir Mag-ResTM TMR Sticks combine the precise performance and low power consumption of traditional potentiometer sticks with the high durability of Hall Effect sticks, ensuring a higher and more stable polling rate
